2009 Mini Cooper vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mini Cooper (172 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 265 weights approximately 279 kg more than 2009 Mini Cooper.
Because 1978 Volvo 265 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mini Cooper, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mini Cooper | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | Cooper | 265 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
